Every person’s breath is as unique as a snowflake, with its own distinct pattern of inhale-exhale counts that mark the passage of time on this planet. A team of scientists, led by brain scientist Timna Soroka, has discovered these patterns using a wearable device that monitored nasal breathing in 97 participants over 24 hours.
The researchers found that people can be accurately identified based on their breath patterns with an accuracy of 96.8 percent. This “respiratory fingerprint” could lead to new ways of understanding and treating physical and mental ailments. The study also revealed how breathing patterns correlate with BMI, mental health, and even the presence of anxiety.
The breakthrough was made possible by developing a tiny wearable device that precisely monitors airflow through each nostril. Analyzing 24 parameters of nasal respiration using a protocol called BreathMetrics provided a comprehensive view of individual breathing patterns from rest to exertion.
While not its primary goal, the study showed that shorter inhales and more variability in pauses between breaths during sleep are common among individuals with anxiety issues. This finding highlights an avenue for further research into the potential benefits of conscious breathing exercises for stress management.
The researchers believe that their discovery could lead to new treatments by modifying respiratory patterns to predict or even treat diseases. Further studies will explore this potential application, building on the existing “respiratory fingerprint” technology.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/your-breathing-pattern-is-as-unique-as-a-fingerprint-study-finds